Lansdale Catholic makes big statement in win over Conwell-Egan in PCL football
LANSDALE — Lansdale Catholic was more than happy to go 'Back to the Future' on Saturday afternoon at Crawford Stadium.
After winning its season opener against High School of the Future, the Crusaders had dropped their next two games.
However, taking advantage of some Conwell-Egan turnovers, they triumphed 21-14.
It was the Philadelphia Catholic League Blue Division opener for both teams. The Crusaders were not coming with much momentum after two straight losses, but they appeared undaunted, even after falling behind 7-0.
The Eagles, meanwhile, had a dominant 38-0 win over Chichester two weeks ago, but did not have a game last weekend.
Conwell-Egan got off to a quick start to take a 7-0 lead in the first quarter, but the Crusaders came on to score 21 unanswered points in the rest of the first half.
Braeden Smith caught a 15-yard touchdown reception to give the Crusaders a 14-7 lead. A 45-yard interception return by LC's James 'Junebug' Webb Jr. put it ahead 21-7 right before halftime.
Since it is the first league game for both teams, there is a lot of season to go and one win or loss does not guarantee anything.
What it means for Conwell-Egan:
While byes might be good for professional teams, having a week off did not turn out well for the Eagles. By the time they shook off the rust, it was too late.
What it means for Lansdale Catholic:
The Crusaders turned around a season that had not been going too well of late with a gritty effort. They stand tied for first in the PCL Blue Division.
Key plays:
A touchdown pass from sophomore David Melcher to junior James 'Junebug' Webb Jr. gave the Crusaders a 14-7 lead late in the second quarter. On Egan's first play after the score, Webb intercepted the pass and ran 45 yards for a touchdown. LC held a 21-7 lead with two minutes left in the second quarter.
Conwell-Egan junior receiver Chris Toombs showed great concentration by catching a deflected pass in the end zone to cut the deficit to one score in the fourth quarter.
By the Numbers: Conwell-Egan vs. Lansdale Catholic
LC quarterback David Melcher completed seven of 11 passes for 84 yards.
CEC wide receiver Chris Toombs had six catches for 58 yards and a touchdown.
The Crusaders defense had one interception, two sacks and two fumbles recovered.
Game Balls
The Lansdale Catholic offense for tripling its scoring output from its past two games combined.
Conwell-Egan's defense for keeping the game close, and giving it a chance to win at the end, despite all the turnovers and miscues.
They said it
Lansdale Catholic senior Chris Ulmer on why he picked Monmouth for college: "I went to the campus and fell in love with it. They have a new staff and are looking for to do big things."
Conwell-Egan coach Jack Techtmann on the heat: “We lost Colin Walker early, and that hurt, and then kept having guys (cramping up). We had a lot of guys who had to come out."
What's next for Conwell-Egan football?
The Eagles (1-2) play West Catholic (1-3) in a PCL Blue Division matchup on Friday, Sept. 20.
What's next for Lansdale Catholic football?
The Crusaders (2-2) play Chichester (0-4) in a non-league game on Saturday, Sept. 21.
This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Bucks County High school football: Lansdale Catholic Conwell-Egan